The African Democratic Congress in Ogun State has reaffirmed its commitment to the empowerment and economic advancement of rural women, pledging to promote their inclusion in governance and restore their dignity.
The party’s governorship candidate, Jimi Lawal, gave the assurance in a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s Directorate of Communications, Media and Publicity and signed by the state publicity secretary, Adesina Olanrewaju, ahead of the International Day of Rural Women, observed annually on October 15.
Lawal declared, “We’ll not leave you behind; we will restore your dignity, and we must always emphasise that the contributions of rural women to food security, community development and environmental protection are very crucial to having a buoyant and healthy nation.”
He lamented that despite their significant roles in sustaining rural economies and supporting households, women in rural communities often receive inadequate recognition and support.
With the 2026 theme of the commemoration, “The Rise of Rural Women: Building Resilient Futures,” the ADC governorship candidate pledged that an administration led by the party would prioritise the welfare and economic empowerment of rural women across the state.
According to him, rural women would be recognised as key contributors to food production and custodians of the state’s environment, while being given opportunities to participate meaningfully in community decision-making and governance.
Lawal also assured rural women that his proposed administration would promote equal opportunities, economic empowerment and policies aimed at restoring their dignity.
“Under our leadership, rural women will not be sidelined; they will be recognised, empowered and given a decisive voice in shaping Ogun State’s future,” he said.
He added that the occasion provided an opportunity to celebrate rural women and acknowledge their contributions to the development of their communities and the state at large.
The International Day of Rural Women is observed annually on October 15 to recognise the contributions of women in rural communities and highlight the challenges they face in accessing economic opportunities, resources and decision-making platforms.